Shin injury sidelines Jess Ziu for Kazakhstan semi-final

RTÉ Soccer Correspondent Tony O'Donoghue Republic of Ireland midfielder Jess Ziu has been ruled out of Friday's FIFA Women's World Cup play‑off semi‑final against Kazakhstan in Astana, and her participation in the Tuesday return leg at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh also looks doubtful.

Injury update

The Leicester City player has been battling a persistent shin injury, which Ireland boss Carla Ward says has flared up again while on international duty. Ward confirmed the problem remains a concern ahead of the crucial matches.

Ziu stayed with the squad that trained at the Astana Arena on Thursday, maintaining her involvement despite the setback. The training session was part of the team's preparation for the Friday fixture.

She will continue to receive treatment from the Ireland medical staff, who are monitoring her recovery closely. A final decision on her fitness for the Tuesday second leg will be taken after the team's return journey to Cork.

Ward also travelled with the suspended pair Katie McCabe and Marissa Sheva for the first leg, while midfielder Denise O'Sullivan is being rested.

Fans can watch Kazakhstan versus Republic of Ireland in the FIFA Women's World Cup play‑offs on Friday from 11.30 am on RTÉ2 and the RTÉ Player, with a live blog available on RTÉ.ie/sport.

Ziu's absence leaves Ireland without one of their key midfield options as they seek to progress in the play‑off series.